Fourth Annual Ocala Jumping Classic Set for April


Canadian Olympian Beth Underhill riding Magdaline won the $50,000 Grand Prix at the 2007 Ocala Jumping Classic. Photo Credit - Xpress Foto

March 20, 2009 – Ocala, Florida – The fourth annual Ocala Jumping Classic will host two $50,000 Grand Prix events during its two-week horse show running April 2-5 and April 9-12 at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, Florida.

The Ocala International, held from April 2-5, and the Ocala Jumping Classic, held April 9-12, will offer a full schedule of classes for jumpers with generous prize money, special pricing deals, and exhibitor events. Free stalls are offered for horses competing in both $50,000 grand prix events.

Each week of competition boasts a $50,000 Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m., the second of which is presented by Brook Ledge, Inc. A $10,000 1.45-1.50m class will be the feature event on both Fridays while each Saturday offers a $5,000 Modified Grand Prix.

Six divisions of jumper classes are offered at the Ocala Jumping Classic to suit horses and riders at every level, ranging from 1m up to 1.45-1.50m. All classes are held on all-weather footing.

“We are committed to hosting two great weekends of show jumping, and we will do all that we can to make the experience pleasant and memorable for everyone,” said Ainsley Hayes, Manager of the Ocala Jumping Classic.

On Sunday, April 5, and Sunday, April 12, a catered luncheon will be held in support of JustWorld International, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children in the developing world. Lunch will be served at 1:30 p.m. in the hospitality tent overlooking the grand prix ring. A cash bar will be available, and the awards ceremony will be held in the tent. Seats are available for $35 per person for each event, while tables of 10 are offered for $300.

“We are proud to have the Ocala Jumping Classic as one of our partner events,” said Jessica Newman, Executive Director of JustWorld International. “With the experienced Hayes family at the helm, the Ocala Jumping Classic promises to be a first-class event, and we extend the best of luck to JustWorld Ambassador, Lauren Hayes.”

For more information on the fourth annual Ocala Jumping Classic, please visit www.hayesco.ca, or contact Ainsley Hayes at e-mail ainsley@hayesco.ca or cell (416) 846-8419.